Chairman's message
In addition to the usual requirement to deliver the annual operating targets, the latter part of last year was hugely challenged with implementation of the “Refocus” of Scottish Enterprise, and the emerging pressures from the global “credit crunch”. I am pleased to report that all priority measures of performance were achieved or exceeded, and that the objectives set for Refocus by the end of the period were fully delivered. My thanks to the management and staff of the organisation for this very significant achievement.
The Refocus has clarified the role of Scottish Enterprise to direct its attention and budget to building value added in the Scottish economy, by increasing the size and growth of the corporate sector while capitalising on the competitive strengths of the country's intellectual property, natural assets and proven industries. The clear objective is to increase the productivity of our economy and in turn increase the wealth of Scotland. The future objectives of the organisation will be specifically directed to this goal, while working with other agencies to achieve alignment with the Government's clearly stated Purpose for the economy
Our strategy is based on responding to the competitive demand requirements of Scotland’s priority industries as expressed by the leadership of the industries themselves, and the specific support pipeline requirements of high growth potential companies and delivered through our account management structure. The Board of Scottish Enterprise will task the organisation with responding to these demands, and key staff will be based around Scotland to maximise our response to these customer needs. This will in turn reduce staffing levels in Atlantic Quay and increase customer support around the country.
As Scotland's enterprise, innovation and investment agency we have a central role to play in delivering the Government's Purpose and we look forward to the opportunities presented by the refocus of the organisation. With the very creditable achievements in 2007-2008, in both operational delivery, the transfer in and out of operations, internal restructuring and staffing reduction, the organisation has clearly demonstrated its capabilities and potential.
Again, and on behalf of all my Board colleagues, our thanks and congratulations to the management and staff on last years achievements, in delivering both rigorous objectives and major structural change. Thanks also to our customers and partners for their invaluable support through this period, and of course to my Board colleagues for their enthusiastic involvement.